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What Can You Do if a Loved One Is Being Unlawfully Detained by ICE?

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February 15, 2026

What Can You Do if a Loved One Is Being Unlawfully Detained by ICE?

Receiving the news that a family member has been taken in by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a nightmare scenario for anyone. The fear is often compounded by confusion, especially if you believe your loved one has legal status or is being held unlawfully. In these terrifying moments, it is vital to remain calm and take strategic action.

At the Law Office of Marron Gebremeskel PLLC, we understand the anxiety you are feeling. Marron Gebremeskel isn’t just an experienced attorney; she is a former USCIS Asylum Officer and Federal Government Trial Attorney, as well as the daughter of refugees. We combine professional understanding with deep personal empathy to help families navigate these crises.

If you suspect a loved one is being unlawfully detained, here are steps you can take immediately.

How to Locate a Detainee

Before you can take legal action, you must confirm where your family member is being held. ICE sometimes moves detainees frequently, so locating them quickly is the first priority.

You can use the Online Detainee Locator System on the ICE website. To search effectively, you should have specific information ready:

  • Alien Registration Number (A-Number): This is a 9-digit number usually found on immigration documents. If you have this number and the detainee’s country of birth, the search is often much faster.
  • Biographical Information: If you do not have the A-Number, you can search using their first and last name, country of birth, and date of birth. Note that the name must match exactly how it appears in the ICE system, so you may need to try variations.

If you cannot find them online, contact the ICE field office nearest the place of arrest.

What if the Detainee Is a U.S. Citizen or Legal Resident?

While ICE primarily seeks out undocumented immigrants, U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (green card holders) are sometimes detained due to administrative mistakes or officer error.

If your loved one has legal status as a:

  • Citizen: Gently remind your loved one to remain calm and clearly state their status to officers. You can help by immediately gathering and providing proof of citizenship, such as their birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or U.S. passport.
  • Permanent Resident: If they hold a green card, it is vital that they show proof of their legal status but avoid signing any documents or answering questions until an attorney is present. You can support them by securing their green card and other supporting documentation, and by contacting an attorney right away.

The Importance of Working with an Immigration Attorney  

Unlawful detention is a serious violation of civil rights, and having an experienced immigration attorney on your family’s side is crucial. An attorney with deep knowledge of immigration law can help fight for your loved one’s rights. Depending on your circumstances, an attorney can help by:  

  • Filing a Writ of Habeas Corpus: They can challenge the legality of the detention in federal court, requiring ICE to justify why the person is being held.  
  • Bond Hearings: An attorney can request and advocate for a bond hearing to seek your loved one’s release while their case is pending.  
  • Correcting Errors: If the detention is due to identity theft or a database mistake, they can provide solid evidence to correct the record and work toward immediate release.  

Having an attorney on your side provides you with professional representation and legal options you may not otherwise have access to.

Let Us Fight for Your Family

You do not have to face the immigration system alone. If your loved one is being detained, time is of the essence. We are ready to listen to your story and fight for your family’s rights. Schedule an appointment with the Law Office of Marron Gebremeskel PLLC today.

Let’s Move Forward Together

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